King James Version

What Does 1 Thessalonians 4:5 Mean?

“Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:”

Context

For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:

That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;

Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:

That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified. defraud: or, oppress, or, overreach in: or, in the matter

For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(5) **Not in the lust of concupiscence, **for such a method of using one’s faculties, such an attempt to acquire mastery of vital powers, is really to abandon them altogether to others. This notion is involved in the very word here translated “lust,” which is more often rendered “passion,” and implies something which *befalls* a man, something *done to* him: “Not in the helpless passivity of concupiscence” or uncontrolled desire. **The Gentiles which know not God.**—Mind the punctuation. The readers of the letter were “Gentiles which *knew* God.” Their brother Thessalonians. are held up to them as melancholy examples of men who are trying in the wrong way to show their power over themselves. Remark that this is not one of the crimes which he alleges against Jews.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Thessalonians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Thessalonians 4:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.